“(CCS) is the top art school in the state and the merit scholarships will really help,” Duffy said.

Hoff and Duffy said the award was based on both their academic performance and a portfolio submitted to the college.

The merit scholarship is based over four years and will cover about half of the tuition costs, they said.

“It has been a pleasure to watch both students grow as individuals as well as artists,” art teacher Amy May said. “They have gone from just doing the required assignments to forming their own style and concepts. I am very proud of both Stephanie Hoff and Shane Duffy for getting in to the College of Creative Studies and ecstatic for them for their scholarships.”

Both seniors credit the Henry Ford II staff for developing their art and academic skills.

“(Mrs. May) lets you experiment with your own type of art and see where you can get better,” Hoff said.

Duffy said he plans to pursue a career in animation or illustration. Hoff is pursuing a career in graphic design.

“I like how there is no wrong or right with art,” Hoff said. “You can do what you want.”